Biological dosimetry of non-uniform radiation exposure

In many situations, controlling the exposure of skin to radiation can be a limiting factor. This not only applies to the nuclear power industry but also to those involved with radiography, radiotherapy, crystallography and other procedures involving possible exposure to radiation. At high doses, as illustrated at Chernobyl, skin damage may be a serious threat to life and a detailed knowledge of dose distribution is crucial for determining the most appropriate medical treatment. At lower doses, a knowledge of dose distribution is also necessary for calculating the total risk associated with the possible induction of cancer in different tissues throughout the body. The CEGB has a particular interest in radioactive particulates which, although not life-threatening, have to be taken into account to comply with International Recommendations and UK Regulations relating to skin dose limitation. To answer questions on the radiobiology of such exposures, with respect to skin, the CEGB established a substantial collaborative research programme. In particular, work was initiated at BNL and Oxford University to investigate the use of hair, and associated cells, as a biological monitor of dose distribution. These techniques can help to confirm that common changes in the appearance of skin (redness etc.) are not due to ionising radiation. (author)